Shoson (1877 - 1945), "Egret on Snow-Covered Branch"

Notes: A brilliant impression that still retains the pink in the body; often faded away. One of the artists most iconic designs. Jacket illustration for the first edition of Crows, Cranes & Camellias, Hotei Publishing, 2001.

A little egret is poised on one leg on a snow-covered tree trunk of a willow, snowflakes fall against a black night sky. This is one of the most highly valued designs by Koson; Richard Illing describes the print as "a masterpiece of graphic art". The print is executed in black; various shades of grey with touches of colour in the bird's leg, beak and eyes. Gauffrage (Blind-stamping) has been employed on the feathers in combination with a pale shade of brown. The snowflakes have been created by unprinted areas in the black background. The result is very effective and dramatic. - CCC pg. 152.